Suspension problem
2002 Toyota Pickup V8 Four Wheel Drive Automatic 160,00 miles

My Toyota Tundra makes a popping noise in the front end on the driver's side once it warms up. On days that the temperature is in the low 70's or cooler, it feels tight and noise free but, once it becomes warmer it gradually starts making noise until it's nearly constant and it actually feels loose.
It almost sounds like it's coming from the front shock but, I've had some suggest it's in the steering.
I replaced the factory shocks on the front and rear a little more that a year ago with Bilsteins.
I need help!

There is a technical bulliten for ball joints on Toyota trucks 2001 and 2002, It is depending on your VIN...
This is from Toyota to Dealers and techs, involves replacing defective ball joint for noise, not self centering after a turn, and increased steering effort. Going over the TSB again I see it's a RECALL and work will be done FREE at Toyota! Check with a Dealer to see if your truck is covered by this recall.
05V225000: LOWER BALL JOINT REPLACEMENT -2002 Toyota Tundra
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05V225000: LOWER BALL JOINT REPLACEMENT
NHTSA RECALL BULLETIN
Reference Number(s): 05V225000 Related Ref Number(s): 05V225000
ARTICLE BEGINNING
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION
Model(s): 2001 Toyota 4Runner
2001 Toyota Tacoma
2002 Toyota 4Runner
2002 Toyota Tacoma
2002 Toyota Tundra
2002 Toyota Sequoia
2003 Toyota Tacoma
2003 Toyota Tundra
2003 Toyota Sequoia
2004 Toyota Tacoma
2004 Toyota Tundra
2004 Toyota Sequoia
Campaign No: 05V225000
Number of Affected Vehicles: 774856
Beginning Date of Manufacture: 2001 08 01
Ending Date of Manufacture: 2003 09 30
DEFECT SUMMARY
On certain sport utility vehicles, the front suspension lower ball joint which connects the lower control arm to the knuckle of the front suspension, there is a possibility that the surface of the ball of the joint may have been scratched.
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10/7/2008
05V225000: LOWER BALL JOINT REPLACEMENT -2002 Toyota Tundra
Page 2 of 2
CONSEQUENCE SUMMARY
The ball joint may eventually experience excessive wear and looseness, resulting in increased steering effort. The lower ball joint may separate from the knuckle causing loss of steering control and a crash could occur with prior warning.
CORRECTIVE SUMMARY
Dealers will replace the front suspension lower ball joints.
OWNER NOTIFICATION
The recall is expected to begin on July 15, 2005. Owners should contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Eastern Time. For more information call (800) 424-9393 or (202) 366-0123. For the hearing impaired, call (800) 424-9153.

© 2007 Mitchell Repair Information Co., LLC.
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10/7/2008